Praise for the Author
Dealing with Autism – How I Successfully Raised My Child with Autism and How You Can Too” is not just a book about autism, it is a story of hope and of empowerment. It tells of how one mother had to dig deep to find the inner strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Randa Habelrih’s determination to fight for her son’s right for acceptance and for the education he deserves is inspiring. Her vision, drive and passion is inspirational as she challenges the wider community to collectively participate in a movement to make this world less lonely and more inclusive for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. I encourage you to read this book and be inspired to take up Randa’s challenge. It is important that we all play our part in making this world more accepting of children with autism and offer our support to their families.
Deborah Thomas
Editorial and Media Director, Bauer Media
This is more than just one person’s story of one family’s journey with autism. It is brimming with lessons for anyone with an interest in this. It is also a must-read book about life because all families have to deal with whatever challenges life throws at them. The book is also an important resource for professionals. In addition to highlighting their role in providing specific expertise, it can only enhance their appreciation of the families they are dealing with — their needs, their hopes and their aspirations. It raises community awareness of the enormous challenges surrounding autism while describing a lived experience of love and hope. It is a highly relatable true story. We couldn’t put it down.
Ron and Mavis Pirola
Prof Ron Pirola OAM MD FRACP and Mrs Mavis Pirola OAM BA Dip Ed
Chair-couple, Australian Catholic Marriage & Family Council
Randa writes with passion about her family’s journey through the educational maze with their son Richard. As a professional in the autism field, I see that at times we can often lose sight of the big picture for individuals on the autism spectrum. Randa has an exceptional ability to get us to focus. I am sure that this book will benefit families on their ASD journey around the world and that it will also be a great asset for professionals to assess their own professional practices.
Niki Welz,
Education and Training Officer, Autism South Australia
Having a child diagnosed with autism can be devastating. Not only is it difficult for the child, it is also devastating for the parents. I am certain this book will help parents of newly diagnosed children to better understand some of the battles ahead, prepare with the benefit of someone else’s experience and find reassurance that they will get through it. More importantly, this book will help family and friends to better understand these challenges and enable them to better support the family. Randa and Richard have been instrumental in paving the way for other children. This is a must-read for all parents with children on the autism spectrum and for educators globally.
Ruth Evatt,
Fellow Autism Mum
This is an honest and accurate account of the journey experienced by individuals and families living with autism. It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child; indeed, each one of us has a responsibility to care for all of those in our ‘village.’
I would recommend this book to educators, medical practitioners and anyone who desires to be better informed about living with autism.
Jannene Althaus
HPE Teacher (P-12)
This is a powerful and must-read book! It’s packed full of essential tips and tools to help you navigate the challenges that can arise in your life and your relationships.
Darren Stephens
Former Chairman, Mars Venus Institute
Randa Habelrih’s book is a powerful reminder that the mystery of life burns just as brightly among the least apparently capable of us as it does among the most apparently beautiful, rich, famous and influential.
I recommend it to all as a testimony of love and a witness to the beauty of every human person.
Peter Rosengren, Editor
The Catholic Weekly, Sydney